Considered Plato's masterpiece, The Republic is the culmination of his efforts to create a complete philosophy of man. In these provocative and entertaining dialogues, Socrates and various Athenian dignitaries discuss the true meaning of justice; debate "Whether the just man is happier than an unjust man"; and consider the nature of the ideal State. Featuring a laminated cover similar to the dust jacket, this fine-print edition was abridged and modernized by Alan Jacobs from the 19th-century translations of Thomas Taylor. The compact size fits nicely in the hand, and it features a sewn binding and two-color printing.